OVERCOMING GRIEF 1Corinthians 15:53-57

OVERCOMING GRIEF This is the fourth in a five part sermon series on overcoming certain personal problems: 1.Overcoming Anxiety. 2.Overcoming Loneliness. 3.Overcoming Anger. 4.Overcoming Grief. 5.Overcoming Guilt.

OVERCOMING GRIEF Introduction Grief is universal and is felt by every person during the course of a lifetime. Any kind of loss and bring about grief. Tonight, how to cope with (overcome) grief. The first half of the lesson will have several scripture references, and the second half will be practical in nature.

OVERCOMING GRIEF The Bible and Grief A.Christ has changed the meaning of grieving. B.Note the following that give hope & comfort in death (1Th 4:14,17,18; 1Cor. 15:52-57; Heb. 2:14,15; Jn. 11:25,26; 2Cor. 5:6-8). C.Christ has demonstrated the importance of grieving (Mt. 5:4; 26:38; Jn. 11:35). D.Even for the Christian, grief is normal and healthy. But it, also can be pathological and unhealthy.

OVERCOMING GRIEF Normal Normal grief would include: 1.Intense sorrow, pain, loneliness, anger, or depression. 2.Physical symptoms and changes in interpersonal relationships. 3.A period of deprivation and transition which can last up to 3 yrs.

OVERCOMING GRIEF Abnormal Abnormal grief would, include: 1.A delay in grieving, hyperactivity, a “giving up” attitude. 2.Helplessness and hopelessness, with intense guilt. 3.Strong self-condemnation, extreme social withdrawal, or moodiness. 4.Antisocial behavior, excessive drinking, and suicidal threats.

OVERCOMING GRIEF The Effects of Grief The most commonly observed reactions to grief: 1.CRYING. This expresses deep feelings and releases tension. 2.RESTLESSNESS. Including sleep disturbances. 3.DEPRESSION. Withdrawal and extreme sadness.

OVERCOMING GRIEF The Grief Cycle First Stage: SHOCK. 1.From the point of death until after the funeral. 2.Symptoms of unawareness, shortness of breath, disbelief and sometimes nausea. 3.Get the bereaved to accept the death and vent hostilities.

OVERCOMING GRIEF The Grief Cycle Second Stage: FANTASY. 1.From the funeral until 6 weeks to 3 months. 2.The bereaved relives many experiences (daydreams a lot). 3.Becomes upset over seemingly foolish things.

OVERCOMING GRIEF The Grief Cycle Third Stage: CATHARSIS. 1.Begins about 2 to 3 months after funeral. 2.Bereaved has crying spells, nervous periods, etc. 3.Very anxious and very talkative. Fear and anxieties can be dispelled by “talking it through.” 4.Will show much hostility toward the church, family, and others that are close. 5.Feelings of inadequacy and insecurity may turn into guilt.

OVERCOMING GRIEF The Grief Cycle Fourth Stage: SELECTIVE MEMORIES. 1.Some physical disorders such as gastritis, insomnia, etc. 2.Feelings of hurt, loneliness, and recalling of important events. 3.Possible withdrawal from common group activities.

OVERCOMING GRIEF The Grief Cycle Fifth Stage: ACCEPTANCE. 1.Can come as early as 6 months or a year depending on factors surrounding the death. 2.Can take up to 3-5 years if the bereaved was extremely close to the deceased.

OVERCOMING GRIEF Counseling & Prevention Before the time of death. Some things you can do are: 1.Develop healthy attitudes in the home. 2.Clarify family relationships. 3.Build friendships. 4.Have various recreational activities. 5.Learn to handle the “little crises.”

OVERCOMING GRIEF Counseling & Prevention At the time of death. Some things to do: 1.Communicate the news calmly, firmly, and not too slowly. 2.Giving support by just being there; you don’t have say much. 3.Plan the funeral to please both the deceased and the bereaved.

OVERCOMING GRIEF Counseling & Prevention After the time of death. Some things to do: 1.Be present and available. 2.Make it known that the expression of feelings is good and acceptable in your presence. 3.Be a receptive, careful listener and expect outbursts of emotion. 4.Provide practical help rather than theological explanations. 5.Do not discourage grieving rituals. 6.Pray for the bereaved and comfort them with Scripture.

OVERCOMING GRIEF Conclusion A.Grieving is a good thing. It is psychologically healthy, and spiritually correct. B.Focus attention on Jesus, who will allow our grieving to be as easy and brief as possible. C.Be patient and allow the bereaved to work through all the stages and cycles of the grieving process.